Entries in small gardens
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Itea illicifoilia is a medium sized evergreen shrub, in mid summer to early autumn it produces drooping honey scented catkin like flowers which bees pour over. Also know as the Virginian willow or Holly-leaf sweet spire it can be grown as free standing shrub in warmer parts of the U.K. or trained in well drained soil against a south or west facing wall in full sun where the reflected heat encourages more flowers and better growth.

If you are an admirer of the annual Amaranthus caudatus or the silk tassel bush Garrya elliptica, this striking standalone plant is for you.

Planted last year, Hidcote Lavender is possibly the best Lavender for edging paths, with a sea of deep violet flower spikes above silvery grey foliage, and a wonderful perfume is released if you brush against it.